Please explain this limit problem

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The discussion focuses on understanding the steps involved in calculating the sum of natural numbers from 1 to N. It explains a grouping method where pairs of numbers from opposite ends of the series are added together, leading to a formula of (N + 1) * (N/2). Participants clarify how the replacement of 'n' with 'n-1' in the fourth step relates to the summation process. The explanation aids in grasping the overall limit problem and its derivation. The conversation concludes with a participant expressing appreciation for the clarification.
rishi kesh
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Please explain the above limit problem.i am able to understand last steps but can't get initial 4 steps.
 

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The sum of natural numbers 1 to N. Is that the part you are confused about?
Let's do an example. Say you want to add the numbers 1 to 10. You can group them: Take the first number and the last number (1 + 10) then 2nd number and next to last (2 + 9), then (3 + 8) etc. Each grouping adds to 11 {N+1}. There are 5 groupings {N/2}. So in general, we have (N + 1) * (N/2). This works with odd N values as well.
 
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scottdave said:
The sum of natural numbers 1 to N. Is that the part you are confused about?
Let's do an example. Say you want to add the numbers 1 to 10. You can group them: Take the first number and the last number (1 + 10) then 2nd number and next to last (2 + 9), then (3 + 8) etc. Each grouping adds to 11. There are 5 groupings. So in general, we have (N + 1) * (N/2). This works with odd N values as well.
This trick is something interesting to know about. I will remember it.appreciate your help :smile::smile:
 
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rishi kesh said:
This trick is something interesting to know about. I will remember it.appreciate your help :smile::smile:
But of you look at the 4th step they replaced 'n' by n-1 ..how do that work?
 
rishi kesh said:
But of you look at the 4th step they replaced 'n' by n-1 ..how do that work?
The comment appears to be misplaced. The replacement occurs one step above, going from ##\sum_{r=1}^n## to ##\sum_{r=1}^{n-1}##.
 
DrClaude said:
The comment appears to be misplaced. The replacement occurs one step above, going from ##\sum_{r=1}^n## to ##\sum_{r=1}^{n-1}##.
Oh i got it. :)
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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